Single serve systems, apparatuses, and methods

ABSTRACT

A single serve pod system, a single serve pod assembly system, a single serve pod, a reusable pod apparatus, a process of assembling the single serve pod, and methods of use are presented. More specifically, and without limitation, the present disclosure relates to preparation of a single serve pod in accordance with brewing coffee, tea, and/or other brewing.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 17/406,658, filed Aug. 19, 2021, which claims thebenefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.63/067,941, filed Aug. 20, 2020, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.63/119,002, filed Nov. 30, 2020, and U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationNo. 63/154,698, filed Feb. 27, 2021. The entire contents of each of theforegoing applications are hereby incorporated by reference herein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates to a pod for a single serve brewing system andalso relates to associated apparatuses for assembling and loading thepod.

BACKGROUND

Home brewing and preparation of coffee, tea and other brewing is wellknown in the art. As one example, and only for ease of explanation,brewing coffee at home has grown common in society. Coffee preparationis the process of turning coffee beans into a beverage. Coffee, as oneexample, is generally made by pouring hot water onto coffee grounds. Thewater is then typically filtered through to remove the coffee grounds,and provide a user with coffee to drink.

Various methods of home brewing are well known in the art includingusing a drip brew coffee and/or a drip brewed coffee machine, a filteredcoffee, a pour-over, an immersion brewer, a percolator, a French press,or a single serve coffee apparatus that filters coffee through a singlecup, providing a single serving size.

The transition from pot brewing, or brewing an entire carafe of coffee,to single cup brewing has grown very popular and commonplace in recentyears. Single serve brewing systems let a predetermined amount of water(generally heated) go through a coffee portion or single serve cup(filled with coffee grinds). A single serve cup is also known as acoffee pod.

In this way, and as is known in the state of the art, a user can brew asingle, standardized cup of coffee. This is beneficial for speed, ease,and decreasing waste of time and resources in brewing an entire pot ofcoffee or similar. Furthermore, single serve coffee pods also allow auser to control portions, strength, temperature at brewing, temperatureat consumption, and a number of other factors. This convenience,depending on the single serve method, is often provided at the touch ofa button.

A common single serve brewing method is through the use of disposablecoffee pods. Disposable coffee pods are generally pre-packed and shippedwith a measured amount of grounds within each sealed, single servecontainer. These single serve coffee pods are then inserted intomachines to be punctured, brewed, and then disposed of Single servecoffee pods are generally made of plastic and sometimes metal. This typeof single serve coffee pod, most commonly used, generates large amountsof waste. Furthermore, these coffee pods usually cannot be recycledbecause they contain food waste from coffee, tea leaves, or the like.Some single serve pods can be recycled if food waste is first removedand the plastic cups are cleaned out. Then, in this case, and in somecircumstances, the remaining plastic may possibly be recycled. Thisbuild of plastic waste pollutes landfills with billions of plasticcoffee pods every year. Furthermore, these plastic single serve podstend to be expensive, relative to the price of coffee. A user may oftenfind they can purchase hand-crafted coffee at a more affordable price.Complicating matters further, single serve plastic or metal coffee podsprovide a very harsh taste. As heat and fluid extract ingredients, theyalso extract plastic and/or metal or other materials (which the singleserve pod) is constructed from. This often results in a poor qualitytaste and potentially unhealthy consequences of single serve podbrewing.

An alternative solution, existing in the art as of recently, provides acommercially compostable single serve pod. Some of the commerciallycompostable options, which have emerged recently, may potentially breakdown in a landfill. Many of these options are unproven but couldpotentially prove fruitful in reducing landfill waste. However, theseoptions are not reusable and tend to be very expensive. This optionstill results in environmental harm due to production and shipping ofthe commercially compostable single serve pods, which can be intensiveto produce and ship. Furthermore, the expense of commerciallycompostable single serve pods has shown evidence of forcing people backto the plastic option. Furthermore, the commercially compostablematerial, and the nature of the material that must be used tends toremove all flavor from the ingredients within, drastically reducing theflavor of the final brewed cup, especially over increased durations oftime. One of the primary reasons for loss in coffee flavor, in asingle-serve plastic cup, may be due to oxidation and/or the exposure ofcoffee grounds to the air. In fact, some coffees should be brewed within24 hours of grinding. Thus, there is still a need in the art for a moresustainable and environmentally friendly solution that still provides aflavorful cup of single brewed beverage, or the like.

Another alternative which has emerged in the art is a reusable singleserve coffee pod. This device is a single serve pod with a metal meshthat can filter the ingredients of coffee grounds and the like.Generally, this device has a lid and a basket-like piece that must becleaned before each use (and must be cleaned manually). Unfortunately,the design and shape of these pods do not allow for efficient emptyingof used ingredients because these designs have a closed basket-likepiece that does not allow for ease in cleaning. Oftentimes, materials orcontents are left behind which can mold or cause bacterial growth, andthis can cause subsequent cups to be brewed based on aged ingredientsand can affect taste. Due to the time, effort, and other shortcomingsinvolved with current reusable pods, these solutions have also proven tobe difficult as a replacement for plastic single serve pods.Furthermore, the reusable pods, as a failure of design tend to bedisposed of often, causing plastic and metal to continue to contaminatelandfills. Thus, this alternative solution fails to eliminate landfillwaste, ease of use, or taste defects which are plaguing the art.

Thus, there is a long-felt need in the art for an environmentallyfriendly, more easy-to-use single serve brewing solution that maintainsflavor while providing longevity, among solving other long-felt needsplaguing the art.

The disclosure herein provides these advantages and others as willbecome clear from the specification and claims provided.

SUMMARY

A single serve pod system, a single serve pod assembly apparatus, areusable pod apparatus, a single serve pod, a process of assembling thesingle serve pod, and methods of use are presented herein. Morespecifically, and without limitation, the present disclosure provides asingle serve pod system for the preparation of a single serve pod inaccordance with brewing coffee, tea, and/or other brewing that isenvironmentally friendly, reduces landfill waste, and maintains theintegrity of flavor

The present disclosure provides a single serve pod system which improvesupon the state of the art and provides a convenience for users, whilealso providing an environmentally friendly solution to many problemsplaguing the art today. The present disclosure provides a solution tocleaning issues, cleanliness issues, waste issues, assembly issues,portioning issues, freshness issues, and more.

In the present disclosure, as further described herein, the presentdisclosure provides a single serve pod system that may provide a userwith a fresh and easy to use filter for each single serve cup, whilealso reducing waste and/or providing environmental consciousness.Furthermore, the present disclosure provides solutions that arerelatively cost effective, quick, and efficient.

In various embodiments, as one example, the present disclosure providesa single serve coffee pod which combines reusability, disposability, andbiodegradability with convenience. Furthermore, the present disclosurecombines the unique single serve coffee pod with a novel assemblyapparatus that provides for portionality, cleanliness, and convenience,among other features and components and advantages.

Aspects of the disclosure provide a reusable pod apparatus and a singleserve pod that are compatible with existing single serve brewingequipment.

In accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, a system includesa filter configured for a single serve brewing system where the filterincludes a lip and a cavity configured to hold a brew ingredient, areusable ring configured to hold the filter to be used in the singleserve brewing system and, after being used in the single serve brewingsystem, to release the filter, where the reusable ring is bottomless andis removable from the single serve brewing system, and a reusable lidconfigured to cover a top of the reusable ring where the reusable lidincludes at least one aperture. The reusable lid, the filter, and thereusable ring combine to form an assembled single serve pod in which thereusable lid covers the top of the reusable ring, the lip of the filteris held between the reusable lid and the reusable ring, and the cavityof the filter extends through the reusable ring. The assembled singleserve pod is configured to be insertable into the single serve brewingsystem for brewing a brewed beverage and to be removable from the singleserve brewing system.

In various embodiments of the system, the filter is configured to beused for a single brew in the single serve brewing system. In variousembodiments of the system, the filter is formed of paper.

In various embodiments of the system, the reusable ring includes a ringbody and a rim extending from a top of the ring body.

In various embodiments of the system, in the assembled single serve pod,the reusable lid rests on the rim of the reusable ring.

In various embodiments of the system, the system includes aheat-resistant ring configured to surround the ring body of the reusablering.

In various embodiments of the system, the system includes a single servepod assembly apparatus that includes an assembly station configured toreceive the reusable ring and the filter.

In various embodiments of the system, the single serve pod assemblyapparatus includes a filter dispenser configured to dispense a pluralityof filters.

In various embodiments of the system, the single serve pod assemblyapparatus includes a single housing that houses the assembly station andthe filter dispenser.

In various embodiments of the system, the single serve pod assemblyapparatus includes a storage container configured to hold a brewingredient, and a hook configured to hang a scoop where the scoop isconfigured to scoop the brew ingredient from the storage container andto transfer the brew ingredient into the filter in the assembly station.

In various embodiments of the system, the single serve pod assemblyapparatus includes a single housing that houses the assembly station,the filter dispenser, and the storage container.

In various embodiments of the system, the single serve pod assemblyapparatus includes a grinder configured to produce the brew ingredient.

In accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, a single serve podincludes a filter configured for a single serve brewing system where thefilter includes a lip and a cavity configured to hold a brew ingredient,a reusable ring configured to hold the filter to be used in the singleserve brewing system and, after being used in the single serve brewingsystem, to release the filter, where the reusable ring is bottomless andis removable from the single serve brewing system, and a reusable lidconfigured to cover a top of the reusable ring where the reusable lidincludes at least one aperture. The reusable lid, the filter, and thereusable ring combine to form an assembled single serve pod in which thereusable lid covers the top of the reusable ring, the lip of the filteris held between the reusable lid and the reusable ring, and the cavityof the filter extends through the reusable ring. The assembled singleserve pod is configured to be insertable into the single serve brewingsystem for brewing a brewed beverage and to be removable from the singleserve brewing system.

In various embodiments of the single serve pod, the filter is configuredto be used for a single brew in the single serve brewing system. Invarious embodiments of the single serve pod, the filter is formed ofpaper.

In various embodiments of the single serve pod, the reusable ringincludes a ring body and a rim extending from a top of the ring body.

In various embodiments of the single serve pod, in the assembled singleserve pod, the reusable lid rests on the rim of the reusable ring.

In various embodiments of the single serve pod, the single serve podincludes a heat-resistant ring configured to surround the ring body ofthe reusable ring.

In accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, a system includesa filter configured for a single serve brewing system where the filterincludes a lip and a cavity configured to hold a brew ingredient, and areusable pod apparatus configured to hold the filter to be used in thesingle serve brewing system and, after being used in the single servebrewing system, to release the filter, where the reusable pod apparatusis bottomless and is removable from the single serve brewing system. Thereusable pod apparatus and the filter combine to form an assembledsingle serve pod in which the reusable pod apparatus supports the lip ofthe filter and the cavity of the filter extends through the reusable podapparatus. The assembled single serve pod is configured to be insertableinto the single serve brewing system for brewing a brewed beverage andto be removable from the single serve brewing system.

In various embodiments of the system, the reusable pod apparatusincludes a bottomless ring.

These and other objects, features, or advantages of the presentdisclosure will become apparent from the specification and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a diagram of an example of a single serve pod system, inaccordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing aspects of the single serve podsystem of FIG. 1 , in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a top view showing aspects of the single serve pod system ofFIG. 1 , in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 is a bottom view showing aspects of the single serve pod systemof FIG. 1 , in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 is a front, elevation view showing aspects of the single servepod system of FIG. 1 , in accordance with aspects of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 6 is a rear, elevation view showing aspects of the single serve podsystem of FIG. 1 , in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 is a side, elevation view showing aspects of the single serve podsystem of FIG. 1 , in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 is a side, elevation view showing aspects of the single serve podsystem of FIG. 1 , in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 9 is a bottom, perspective view showing aspects of the single servepod system of FIG. 1 , in accordance with aspects of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 10 is another bottom, perspective view showing aspects of thesingle serve pod system of FIG. 1 , in accordance with aspects of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the single serve pod system of FIG. 1 withan open storage container, in accordance with aspects of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 12 is a diagram of components of the single serve pod system ofFIG. 1 in a disassembled and/or exploded state, in accordance withaspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 13 is a diagram of an example of a filter, in accordance withaspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 14 is a bottom, perspective view of the filter of FIG. 13 , inaccordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 15 is a diagram of an example of a reusable pod apparatus, inaccordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 16 is a diagram of an example of an assembled single serve pod thatincludes the reusable pod apparatus of FIG. 15 together with the filterof FIG. 14 , in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 17 is a diagram of an example of a reusable ring, in accordancewith aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 18 is a bottom, perspective view of the reusable ring of FIG. 17 ,in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 19 is a diagram of another example of a reusable pod apparatus, inaccordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 20 is a diagram of components of the reusable pod apparatus of FIG.19 in a disassembled state, in accordance with aspects of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 21 is a top perspective view of the reusable ring in the reusablepod apparatus of FIG. 19 , in accordance with aspects of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 22 is a bottom perspective view of the reusable ring of FIG. 21 ,in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of the reusable pod apparatus of FIG.19 with the lid closed, in accordance with aspects of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 24 is a top perspective view of the reusable pod apparatus of FIG.19 with the lid closed, in accordance with aspects of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 25 is a bottom perspective of the reusable pod apparatus of FIG. 24, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 26 is a diagram of an example of a reusable pod apparatus having areusable lid with five apertures, in accordance with aspects of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 27 is a diagram of another example of a single serve pod systemwith a built-in coffee grinder, in accordance with aspects of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view of the single serve pod system of FIG.27 , in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 29 is a diagram of the pod drawer of the single serve pod system ofFIG. 27 , in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 30 is a diagram of the filter drawer of the single serve pod systemof FIG. 27 , in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description, reference is made to theaccompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and in which is shown byway of illustration specific embodiments in which the disclosure may bepracticed. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail toenable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, and it is tobe understood that other embodiments may be utilized and thatmechanical, procedural, and other changes may be made without departingfrom the spirit and scope of the disclosure(s). The following detaileddescription is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and thescope of the disclosure(s) is defined only by the appended claims, alongwith the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

As used herein, the terminology such as vertical, horizontal, top,bottom, front, back, end, sides and the like are referenced according tothe views, pieces and figures presented. It should be understood,however, that the terms are used only for purposes of description andare not intended to be used as limitations. Accordingly, orientation ofan object or a combination of objects may change without departing fromthe scope of the disclosure.

Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment,” “anembodiment,” “one example,” or “an example” means that a particularfeature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with theembodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment of thepresent disclosure. Thus, the appearance of the phrases “in oneembodiment,” “in an embodiment,” “one example,” or “an example” invarious places throughout this specification are not necessarily allreferring to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the particularfeatures, structures, databases, or characteristics may be combined inany suitable combinations and/or sub-combinations in one or moreembodiments or examples. In addition, it should be appreciated that thefigures provided herewith are for explanation purposes to personsordinarily skilled in the art and that the drawings are not necessarilydrawn to scale.

In accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, a single serve podsystem (e.g., 10), a single serve pod assembly apparatus (e.g., 100), areusable pod apparatus (e.g., 250), a single serve pod (e.g., 200), aprocess of assembling the single serve pod, and methods of use arepresented. More specifically, in various embodiments, the presentdisclosure provides a single serve pod preparation system for thepreparation of a single serve pod in accordance with brewing coffee,tea, and/or other brewing that is environmentally friendly, reduceslandfill waste, and maintains the integrity of flavor. Morespecifically, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, thepresent disclosure provides a unique reusable pod apparatus (e.g., 250)that is bottomless, easy to use, and usable with disposable filters.

The present disclosure provides a single serve pod system which improvesupon the state of the art and provides a convenience for users, whilealso providing an environmentally friendly solution to many problemsplaguing the art today. The present disclosure provides a solution tocleaning issues, cleanliness issues, waste issues, assembly issues,portioning issues, freshness issues, and more.

In the present disclosure, as is further described herein, the presentdisclosure provides a single serve pod system that provides a user witha fresh and easy to use filter for each single serve cup, while alsoreducing waste and/or providing environmental consciousness.Furthermore, the present disclosure provides solutions that arerelatively cost effective, quick, and efficient by using, e.g., abottomless, open, reusable pod apparatus (e.g., 250) that allows forless cleaning, easier waste disposal, easier loading, easier storage,shorter profile, and ability to hang on a hook.

Single Serve Pod System:

With reference to FIG. 1 , a single serve pod system 10 is presented(which may hereafter be referred to simply as “system”). The singleserve pod system 100 includes a single serve pod assembly apparatus 100and an assembled pod 200, among other components, which will bedescribed below herein. The assembled pod 200 is a “single serve” pod inthe sense that it is usable in a single serve brewing system (not shown)for a single brew that serves an individual. Accordingly, the assembledpod 200 may be referred to herein as a “single serve pod.” As explainedbelow herein, portions of or all of the assembled pod 200 may bereusable for multiple brews in a single serve brewing system. Singleserve pod system 10 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design andis configured to provide an easy, efficient system for assembly and useof a single serve pod 200.

As explained in more detail below in connection with FIG. 16 , thesingle serve pod 200 includes a filter 20, a ring 40, a lid feature 60,an alternative lid feature 80. Aspects of the single serve pod assemblyapparatus 100, among other features, components, and functionality, aredescribed below in connection with FIGS. 2-12 .

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the single serve pod system 10may also include or may operate or communicate with remote servers,databases, application servers, application databases, productdatabases, mobile applications, and/or computers; all of which incontinuity or as separate acts fulfill the functions and methodsdisclosed herein.

User:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 10 is used by a user.User may be any user or person, or plurality of users interacting withor utilizing the system 10. This may include filling or refillingingredients in the storage container, scooping ingredients, filling orrefilling filters, utilizing the assembly apparatus (to be furtherdiscussed herein), hanging or removing the reusable rings, placingfilters within the reusable rings, placing the single serve pod into theassembly apparatus, assembling single serve pods, reusing and/orcleaning the system among other features and functionality. Furthermore,this may include viewing, controlling, analyzing, manipulating, and/orinteracting with the system 10. Furthermore, users are not limited to asingle user but may be a plurality of users. Additional equipment mightbe utilized in operation, such as but not limited to, a single servecoffee brewing machine or the like.

Filter:

In the arrangement shown, as one example and specifically with referencealso to FIG. 13 and FIG. 14 , the system 10 includes one or more filters20 (which may be referred to herein as a “coffee filter”, “ingredientsfilter”, “disposable filter”, or simply a “filter”). Filter 20 is formedof any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to trapingredients such as coffee grounds while allowing the liquid and/orwater to flow through. In this way, filter 20 can remove unwantedcompounds and/or unwanted particles during the brewing process.

In the arrangement shown, filter 20 extends from a top 22 to a bottom 24having an exterior surface 26 and an interior surface 28 with a hollowinterior/cavity 30 formed therein. The top 22 of the filter 20 includesa top lip 32, or lip 32. Lip 32 also extends the peripheralcircumference, in the example shown. In this way, the lip 32 serves as asetting portion and/or gripping surface such that the reusable ring (tobe further discussed herein) can secure the filter in place.

Furthermore, in the arrangement shown, as one example, filter 20includes an upper portion 34 and a lower portion 36. The filter 20shown, as one example, may also include measuring lines, among otherfeatures, components, and functionalities. Furthermore, the filter mayalso be double or triple walled as desired from time to time. In thearrangement shown, as one example, the lower portion 36 of filter 20 isgenerally semi-spherical in shape and designed to house ingredients orother grounds therein. Similarly, the upper portion 34 of the filter 20is configured to house ingredients and/or accept water therein whilebeing shaped to act as a funnel which keeps grounds and/or otheringredients in the hollow interior/cavity 30 of the filter 20.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, filter 20 is formed of apaper. In this way, water and/or liquid can move through the entirety offilter 20, including the sides and the bottom. Similarly, in this way,the entire interior surface of the filter 20 provides for filter and/orfunneling and the removal of pulp or particular grounds or tea leavesand the like. Furthermore, in this way, the structural components offilter 20 can be crimped into place. Crimping is one form contemplatedfor use, however, other forms of strengthening and/or creating thefilter 20 are also hereby contemplated for use.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, filter 20 is formed of paper,whether bleached or unbleached, or the like. However, filter 20 may alsobe formed of a metal mesh, an alternative mesh, such as a nylon mesh, aplastic mesh, a combination thereof, or the like as will be able toremove a desired level of particulate.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, a single serve pod 200generally is designed to accommodate a single filter 20 for a singlebrew. However, other numbers of filters 20 are also hereby contemplatedfor use. In the case of a metal mesh, the filter 20 may be used over andover again, while the paper filter 20 embodiment would likely bediscarded after use. Furthermore, multiple filters can be overlaid, andthe like.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, filter 20 is formed in adome-like shape. In this way, the unique design and shape are configuredto maximize the amount of coffee in the space and/or volume. In thisway, extraction is maximized through the bottom of the filter, whichincreases and improves upon the state of the art of single serve coffeebrewing.

Reusable Pod Apparatus:

With reference also to FIGS. 14-18 , in the arrangement shown, as oneexample, the system 10 includes a reusable pod apparatus 250 that isbottomless and includes a reusable ring structure 40 and optionally areusable lid 60 or 80. The reusable ring structure 40 may be referred toherein simply as “reusable ring.” Reusable ring 40 is formed of anysuitable size, shape, and design and is configured to provide a reusablebottomless structure which can house and hold a single-use ormultiple-use filter (e.g., 20) for purposes of single serve brewing.

Said another way, reusable ring 40 is configured to couple to a filter20, utilize the filter for a single brewing process, and subsequentlydetach from the filter 20 in an easy and efficient manner. Then,reusable ring 40 is also configured to couple again to the filter 20 (ifit is reusable) or to a new filter (in case of single-use filters) forpurposes of brewing another and/or second single serve brew and/orsingle serve coffee. In this way, the reusable ring 40 is designed andconfigured to be used over and over in an easy to use, quick andefficient manner.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, reusable ring 40 is generallyring and/or circumferential in shape and has a top 42 and a bottom 44.The ring 40 extends a perimeter and/or loop having a slender exteriorsurface 46 and a generally thin interior surface 48.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the reusable ring 40 isprimarily made of a polymer. However, other materials are herebycontemplated for use, and may include metal and the like to be used inthe attachment features of the reusable ring and/or a combination ofvarious materials. Other materials might include, but are not limitedto, polymers, enhanced polymers, metal, metal alloys, glass, enhancedglass, other materials, a combination thereof and the like.

Lip Feature of Reusable Ring: In the arrangement shown, as one example,the reusable ring 40 also includes a top lip 50. Top lip 50 is formed ofany suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to fit withinclose and tight tolerances of the lip 32 of the filter 20. In this way,the filter 20 and/or the lip 32 of the filter 20 can be engaged with thelip 50 of the reusable ring 40 so that the filter 20 sits on top of thereusable ring 40 without slipping through the bottom or disengaging withthe ring. In this way, filter 20 can be easily placed within reusablering 40. Similarly, filter 20 can be easily disengaged from the reusablering 40 when the brewing process is complete. In this way, the filter 20can be quickly engaged for single cup brewing, and then quickly ejectedand/or discarded when the user is finished with the filter 20 and/or theingredients and/or coffee grounds within the filter 20.

Attachment Feature of Reusable Ring: Furthermore, and in the arrangementshown, as one example, the reusable ring 40 includes an attachmentfeature 52. Attachment feature 52 is formed of any suitable size, shape,and design and is configured to operably connect the reusable ring 40 toa reusable lid 60 and/or to a reusable lid alternative 80 (to be furtherdiscussed herein). In the arrangement shown, as one example, theattachment feature includes a hinged connection for operably connectingthe reusable ring 40 to the reusable lid 60/80. However, other types ofoperable connections are hereby contemplated for use.

Catch Feature: In the arrangement shown, as one example, reusable ring40 also includes a primary catch feature 54. Primary catch feature 54 isformed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured toengage the reusable lid 60/80 (to be further described herein) with thereusable ring 40. Additionally, the catch feature 54 and/or primarycatch 54 engages the reusable lid 60/80 with the reusable ring 40 insuch a way as to squeeze the lip 32 of the filter 20 between thereusable ring 40 and the reusable lid 60/80 that the filter 20 is heldin place more so than without the use of a reusable lid 60/80.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the reusable lid 40 of system10 includes a primary catch feature 54. However, in an alternativeembodiment, no catch feature is required. In this way, the systemfunctions without the primary catch feature. In yet another alternativeembodiment, the reusable lid 40 of system 10 includes only the firstcatch feature and the second catch feature, and no primary catchfeature. In yet another alternative embodiment, reusable lid of system10 includes only a first catch feature and no primary catch feature orsecondary catch feature. In yet another alternative embodiment, thereusable lid 40 of system 10 includes a second catch feature and nofirst catch feature or primary catch feature. In yet another alternativeembodiment, reusable lid 40 of system 10 includes additional and/oralternative catch features.

The catch feature 54, in the arrangement shown, engages by frictionalslipping and causes a small latch and/or small ledge to engage after thepliable material of the catch is forced outward to disengage. Once thereusable lid 60/80 has moved past the latch extension of the catch 54,the catch 54 reengages due to the frictional shape of the catch. Theuser can then press the catch to cause a pliable release when the userwishes to disengage the reusable lid 60/80. Other forms of a catch 54are hereby contemplated for use and include, but are not limited to, abutton release feature, a frictional fit, a snap fit, and the like.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the reusable ring 40 and thereusable lid also include a plurality of secondary catch features whichfurther aid in the frictional engagement of the reusable lid 60/80 withthe reusable ring 40. In the arrangement shown, as one example, thereusable ring 40 includes a first side catch feature 56 spaced inapproximately equal relation to the attachment feature 52 of thereusable ring 40 and the primary catch feature 54 of the ring.Similarly, and on the opposite side of the reusable ring 40, thereusable ring 40 includes a second side catch feature 58 which isapproximately equally spaced between the primary catch feature 54 andthe attachment feature 52 of the reusable ring 40.

In this way, the reusable ring 40 is configured to repeatedly engage anddisengage with the reusable lid 60/80 while securely fitting in closeand tight tolerances a filter 20. In this way, filter 20 is alsoprevented from moving about during the brewing process and the like.Other additional features to prevent movement during brewing and thelike are further described herein.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the primary catch feature isshown on the front of the reusable ring. However, the primary catchfeatures may be along the side and are also shown along the two sides astwo primary catch features. In this way, no front catch feature wouldneed to be used. However, a plurality of catch features placed anywhereon the reusable ring are hereby contemplated for use. Furthermore, thecatch features, as arranged on each side can be pressed and/or pinchedby force to release the lid. This aids in ease of use and functionality.

Grip Feature: In the arrangement shown, as one example, the reusablering 40 also includes a filter grip feature 59 or grip feature 59. Gripfeature 59 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and isconfigured to provide an additional frictional grip and/or pressuresurface to retain the filter 20 in place when being utilized and/orengaged with the reusable ring 40.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, grip feature 59 is a foam ringwhich extends as a circle when viewed from the top for the entirecircumference of the reusable ring. In this way, as configured in theexample shown, the grip feature 59 is configured to engage the lip 32 ofthe filter 20. In this way, the grip feature 59, when activated bysqueezing the lip 32 of the filter 20 between the reusable lid 60/80 andthe reusable ring 40, the filter 20 becomes securely in place. In thearrangement shown, as one example, the grip feature 59 may be foamand/or rubber and/or another material with a slight pliability to it soas to allow for some deformation. However, the grip feature 59 may alsobe fairly rigid but so as to accept a force of the reusable lid andengagement of the reusable lid 60/80 with the reusable ring 40.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the reusable ring 40 isgenerally circular in shape when viewed from the top. The reusable ring40 is generally formed in this shape to accommodate a majority of singleserve brewing systems. However, other shapes are also herebycontemplated for use. Other shapes for the reusable ring 40 include, butare not limited to, circular with a single flat sidewall, square inshape, triangular in shape, oval in shape, elliptical in shape, conicalin shape, bucket like in shape, disc like in shape, a combinationthereof, and the like.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, a plurality of reusable rings40 can be implemented. While only one reusable ring might be utilized,several reusable rings 40 can potentially be utilized in the variousmethods of use. For example, while one reusable ring 40 is being used inthe brewing process, another reusable ring 40 may be assembled in thesingle serve pod assembly apparatus 100 (to be further describedherein).

Reusable Lid:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, and with reference also toFIG. 15 , the system 10 includes a reusable lid 60 (which may bereferred to herein as an “enclosure”, a “percolator”, a “filter grip”, a“reusable top”, or simply a “lid”). Reusable lid 60 is formed of anysuitable size, shape, and design and is configured to securely enclosethe top of the reusable ring 40. Furthermore, in the arrangement shown,as one example, reusable lid 60 is configured to distribute and/orpercolate water and/or liquid into the interior of the reusable ring 40and/or filter 20.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, reusable lid 60 is generallycircular in shape when viewed from the top 62. The reusable lid 60includes a bottom 64 which may protrude into the interior of thereusable ring 40 when in the closed position and/or engaged position.The reusable lid 60 also includes a slender exterior surface 66 aroundthe perimeter of the reusable lid 60. Furthermore, the reusable lidincludes a percolator 68 having a plurality of apertures 70 for thedistribution of liquids evenly over the ingredients on the interior ofthe filter 20, when engaged. Furthermore, a single aperture may be usedto provide delivery of contents into the filter 20.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the reusable lid 60 alsoincludes a bottom lip 72. Bottom lip 72 is formed to engage the lip 32of the filter 20 and squeeze the lip 32 of the filter 20 in between thereusable lid 60 and the lip 54 of the reusable ring 40. In this way, andin the arrangement shown, as one example, the bottom lip 72 is sized andshaped to appear and/or accommodate the lip 32 of the filter 20 in closeand tight tolerances. The cavity 30 of the filter 20 extends through thereusable ring 40.

Attachment Feature: In the arrangement shown, as one example, thereusable lid 60 also includes attachment features 74. Attachment feature74 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configuredto operably connect the reusable lid 60 to a reusable ring 40. In thearrangement shown, as one example, the attachment feature 74 includes ahinged connection for operably connecting the reusable ring 40 to thereusable lid 60. However, other types of operable connections are herebycontemplated for use.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the reusable lid 60 alsoincludes an interlocking extension feature 75. Interlocking extensionfeature 75 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and isconfigured to interlock and/or provide additional fitting and attachmentfeatures with the reusable lid 40. In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, the interlocking extension feature 75 is a small step featurewith frictional fit components and/or rubber fit components which causeengagement with the reusable lid 40.

Catch Feature of the Reusable Lid: In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, reusable lid 60 also includes a primary catch feature 76.Primary catch feature 76 is formed of any suitable size, shape, anddesign and is configured to engage the primary catch feature 56 of thereusable lid 40. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the primarycatch feature 76 of the reusable lid 60 is formed of a small extensionand/or arm piece which can be grabbed by the primary attachment feature54 of the reusable ring 40. Additionally, and said another way, thecatch feature 76 and/or primary catch 76 engages with the reusable ring40 in such a way as to squeeze the lip 32 of the filter 20 between thereusable ring 40 and the reusable lid 60 such that the filter 20 is heldin place more so than without the use of a reusable lid 60.

The catch feature 76, in the arrangement shown, engages by frictionalslipping and causes a small latch and/or small ledge to engage with thecatch feature of the reusable ring 40 after the pliable material of thecatch is forced outward to disengage. Once the primary catch feature 76of the reusable lid 60 has moved past the latch extension of the catch54, the catch 76 reengages due to the frictional shape of the catch 76,which is an extension outward from the center of the reusable lid 60.The user can then press the catch to cause a pliable release when theuser wishes to disengage the reusable lid 60. Other forms of a catch 76are hereby contemplated for use and include, but are not limited to, abutton release feature, a frictional fit, a snap fit, and the like.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the reusable lid 60 alsoincludes a plurality of secondary catch features 77 and 78, whichfurther aid in the frictional engagement of the reusable lid 60 with thereusable ring 40. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the reusablelid 60 includes a first side catch feature 77 spaced in approximatelyequal relation to the attachment feature 74 of the reusable lid 60 andthe primary catch feature 76 of the reusable ring 60. Similarly, and onthe opposite side of the reusable lid 60, lid 60 includes a second sidecatch feature 78 which is approximately equally spaced between theprimary catch feature 76 and the attachment feature 74 of the reusablering 60.

Grip Feature of Alternative Embodiment: In an alternative embodiment,the reusable lid 60 may also include a grip feature. In this way, analternative grip feature is a foam ring which extends as a circle whenviewed from the top for the entire circumference of the ring. In thisway, as configured in the example shown, the grip feature is configuredto engage the lip 32 of the top of the filter 20. In this way, the gripfeature of the reusable lid 60, when activated by squeezing the lip 32of the filter 20 between the reusable lid 60 and the reusable ring 40,the filter becomes securely in place. In this alternative arrangement,as one example, the grip feature may be foam and/or rubber and/oranother material with a slight pliability to it so as to allow for somedeformation. However, the grip feature may also be fairly rigid but soas to accept a force of the lid and engagement of the reusable lid 60with the reusable ring 40. Furthermore, in this way, the grip feature isconfigured to easily open and/or close the reusable lid in concert withthe reusable ring.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the reusable lid 60 isgenerally circular in shape when viewed from the top. The reusable lid60 is generally formed in this shape to accommodate a majority of singleserve brewing devices. However, other shapes are also herebycontemplated for use. Other shapes for the reusable lid 60 may include,but are not limited to, circular with a single flat sidewall, square inshape, triangular in shape, oval in shape, elliptical in shape, conicalin shape, bucket like in shape, disc like in shape, a combinationthereof, and the like. Furthermore, in this way, the reusable lid 60 maybe similar or different in shape than the reusable ring 40.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, a plurality of reusable rings40 can be implemented. However, a reusable lid 60 may not be required inan alternative embodiment. In this way, zero reusable lids 60 would beutilized in one embodiment and/or method of the present disclosure.Additionally, while only one reusable ring might be utilized, severalreusable lids 60 can potentially be utilized in the various methods ofuse. For example, while one reusable lid 60 is being used in the brewingprocess, another reusable lid 60 may be assembled in the single servepod assembly apparatus 100 (to be further described herein).

Alternative Reusable Lid:

In the arrangement shown, as another example, and with reference also toFIG. 16 , system 10 also includes an alternative reusable lid 80 (alsoreferred to as an “enclosure”, a “percolator”, a “filter grip”, a“reusable top”, or simply a “lid”). Reusable lid 80 is formed of anysuitable size, shape, and design and is configured to enclose the top ofthe reusable ring 40. Furthermore, in the arrangement shown, as oneexample, reusable lid 80 is configured to distribute and/or percolatewater and/or liquid into the interior of the reusable ring 40 and/orfilter 20.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, reusable lid 80 is generallycircular in shape when viewed from the top 82. The reusable lid 80includes a bottom 84 which may protrude into the interior of thereusable ring 40 when in the closed position and/or engaged position.The reusable lid 80 also includes a slender exterior surface 86 aroundthe perimeter of the reusable lid 80. Furthermore, the reusable lid 80includes a percolator 88 having a plurality of apertures 90 for thedistribution of liquids evenly over the ingredients on the interior ofthe filter 20, when engaged.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the percolator 88 is shownhaving multiple apertures. However, another alternative embodiment, asis shown, includes a percolator 88 which only has a single aperture.While one aperture is contemplated for use in this embodiment, aplurality of apertures is hereby contemplated for use, in use with thepercolator 88. This includes but is not limited to, one aperture, twoapertures, three apertures, four apertures, five apertures, sixapertures, seven apertures, eight apertures, nine apertures, or moreapertures.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the reusable lid 80 alsoincludes a bottom lip 92. Bottom lip 92 is formed to engage the lip 32of the filter 20 and squeeze the lip 32 of the filter 20 in between thereusable lid 80 and the lip 54 of the reusable ring 40. In this way, andin the arrangement shown, as one example, the bottom lip 92 is sized andshaped to appear and/or accommodate the lip 32 of the filter 20 in closeand tight tolerances. The cavity 30 of the filter 20 extends through thereusable ring 40.

Attachment Feature: In the arrangement shown, as one example, thereusable lid 80 also includes attachment features 94. Attachment feature94 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configuredto operably connect the reusable lid 80 to a reusable ring 40. In thearrangement shown, as one example, the attachment feature 94 includes ahinged connection for operably connecting the ring 40 to the reusablelid 80. However, other types of operable connections are herebycontemplated for use.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, lid 80 also includes aninterlocking extension feature 93. Interlocking extension feature 93 isformed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is configured tointerlock and/or provide additional fitting and attachment features withthe reusable lid 40. In the arrangement shown, as one example, theinterlocking extension feature 93 is a circular extension which extendsdownward from the reusable lid 80 and provides for additional attachmentfeatures. The extension and/or interlocking extension feature can moresecurely attached to the reusable lid 80 by providing small aperturesfor features of the reusable lid 80 to engage with, while also providingfrictional fit components and/or rubber fit components which causeengagement with the reusable lid 80.

Sub catch features of Alternative Reusable Lid: In the arrangementshown, as one example, the reusable lid 80 also includes additionalsub-catch features 99. Sub-catch features 99, as shown in FIG. 16 , aresmall apertures equally spaced around the perimeter of the extensionfeature. The sub-catch features 99 are designed to accept smallextensions from the reusable lid so as to frictionally engage into theinterior of the sub-catch features. In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, four sub-catch features are shown, however any other number ofsub-catch features is hereby contemplated for use.

Catch Feature of the Reusable Lid: In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, reusable lid 80 also includes a primary catch feature 96.Primary catch feature 96 is formed of any suitable size, shape, anddesign and is configured to engage the primary catch feature 56 of thereusable lid 40. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the primarycatch feature 96 of the reusable lid 80 is formed of a small extensionand/or arm piece which can be grabbed by the primary attachment feature54 of the reusable ring 40. Additionally, and said another way, thecatch feature 96 and/or primary catch 96 engages with the reusable ring40 in such a way as to squeeze the lip 32 of the filter 20 between thereusable ring 40 and the reusable lid 80 such that the filter 20 is heldin place more so than without the use of a reusable lid 80.

The catch feature 96, in the arrangement shown, engages by frictionalslipping and causes a small latch and/or small ledge to engage with thecatch feature of the reusable ring 40 after the pliable material of thecatch is forced outward to disengage. Once the primary catch feature 96of the reusable lid 80 has moved past the latch extension of the catch54, the catch 96 reengages due to the frictional shape of the catch 96,which is an extension outward from the center of the reusable lid 80.The user can then press the catch to cause a pliable release when theuser wishes to disengage the reusable lid 80. Other forms of a catch 96are hereby contemplated for use and include, but are not limited to, abutton release feature, a frictional fit, a snap fit, and the like.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the reusable lid 80 alsoincludes a plurality of secondary catch features 97 and 98, whichfurther aid in the frictional engagement of the reusable lid 80 with thereusable ring 40. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the reusablelid 80 includes a first side catch feature 97 spaced in approximatelyequal relation to the attachment feature 94 of the reusable lid 80 andthe primary catch feature 96 of the reusable ring 80. Similarly, and onthe opposite side of the reusable lid 80, lid 80 includes a second sidecatch feature 98 which is approximately equally spaced between theprimary catch feature 96 and the attachment feature 94 of the reusablering 80. Furthermore, in this way, the grip feature is configured toeasily open and/or close the lid in concert with the reusable ring.

Grip Feature of Alternative Embodiment: In an alternative embodiment,the reusable lid 80 may also include a grip feature. In this way, analternative grip feature is a foam ring which extends as a circle whenviewed from the top for the entire circumference of the ring. In thisway, as configured in the example shown, the grip feature is configuredto engage the lip 32 of the top of the filter 20. In this way, the gripfeature of the reusable lid 80, when activated by squeezing the lip 32of the filter 20 between the lid 80 and the reusable ring 40, the filter20 becomes securely in place. In this alternative arrangement, as oneexample, the grip feature may be foam and/or rubber and/or anothermaterial with a slight pliability to it so as to allow for somedeformation. However, the grip feature may also be fairly rigid but soas to accept a force of the lid and engagement of the reusable lid 80with the reusable ring 40.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the reusable lid 80 isgenerally circular in shape when viewed from the top. The reusable lid80 is generally formed in this shape to accommodate a majority of singleserve brewing devices. However, other shapes are also herebycontemplated for use. Other shapes for the reusable lid 80 may include,but are not limited to, circular with a single flat sidewall, square inshape, triangular in shape, oval in shape, elliptical in shape, conicalin shape, bucket like in shape, disc like in shape, a combinationthereof, and the like. Furthermore, in this way, the reusable lid 80 maybe similar or different in shape than the reusable ring 40.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, a plurality of reusable rings40 can be implemented. However, a reusable lid 80 may not be required inan alternative embodiment. In this way, zero reusable lids 80 would beutilized in one embodiment and/or method of the present disclosure.Additionally, while only one reusable ring might be utilized, severalreusable lids 80 can potentially be utilized in the various methods ofuse. For example, while one lid 80 is being used in the brewing process,another reusable ring 80 may be assembled in the reusable pod apparatus(to be further described herein).

Single Serve Pod Assembly Apparatus:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, and with reference to FIGS.1-12 , system includes a single serve pod assembly apparatus 100 (whichmay be referred to as an “assembly apparatus” or simply an “apparatus”).Single serve pod assembly system 100 is formed of any suitable size,shape, and design and is configured to provide ease and efficientassembly of a single serve pod 200 without the need for cleaning, or thelike.

Said another way, and in the arrangement shown, as one example, assemblyapparatus 100 is designed and configured to provide various componentsfor easily assembling and/or preparing a single serve pod 200 forbrewing. In the arrangement shown, as one example, a user engages theassembly apparatus 100 by first removing a reusable ring 40 from theside hooks. Subsequently, a user will grab a single-use or multiple-usefilter 20 from the filter dispenser of the assembly apparatus 100 (to befurther described herein). A user then can place the filter 20 into thereusable ring 40. Alternatively, a user will place the reusable ring 40into the assembly station 120 (to be further described herein) of theassembly apparatus 100.

Once the reusable ring 40 is placed into the assembly station 120, auser will place a filter 20 (after removing from the filter dispenser)into the reusable ring 40. Once the filter 20 is in place, a user willopen the storage container 160 (to be further discussed herein) and usea coffee scoop to scoop coffee grounds and/or other ingredients into thehollow interior/cavity of the filter. Subsequently a user will close thereusable lid 60/80. The user can then place the assembled single servepod 200 into a single serve brewing device (not shown). Once completed,the filter and contents can simply be removed, and the reusable ring 40replaced onto a storage hook or within the assembly station of theassembly apparatus 100. Furthermore, and in one example, a custom coffeescoop which is formed and designed to fit along the side of and hookonto the top of system 10 is also hereby contemplated for use. In thisway, the coffee scoop can be easily removed, used, and re-stored. Inthis way, the assembly apparatus 100 is configured to make assembly of asingle serve device easy, quick, clean, efficient, environmentallyfriendly, and fun.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, with continuing reference toFIGS. 1-12 , the assembly apparatus 100 includes an upper portion 110,an assembly station 120, a filter dispenser 130, a lower portion 150, astorage container 160, and a storage container housing 180, among otherfeatures, components, and functionality.

Furthermore, and in the arrangement shown, as one example, the assemblyapparatus 100 extends from a top 102 to a bottom 103 between opposingsides 104. The assembly apparatus 100, in the arrangement shown, as oneexample, also extends a length from a front 105 to a back 106 or rear106. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the assembly apparatus100 has an exterior surface 107 and an interior surface 108, as well asa hollow interior 109. The hollow interior 109 of the assembly apparatus100 is configured to house and hold various components (as is furtherdescribed herein).

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the assembly apparatus 100 isformed of a polymer such as a plastic, an enhanced polymer,thermoplastics, an elastomer, polyvinyl chloride, a polyethylene, asynthetic, or the like. Other materials also include wood, metal, metalalloys, carbon fiber, glass, fiberglass, stainless steel, rubbers,silicone, aluminum, a combination thereof, and the like.

Upper Portion of Assembly Apparatus:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the assembly apparatus 100includes an upper portion 110. Upper portion 110 is formed of anysuitable size, shape, and design, and is configured as the top portionof the assembly apparatus 100. In the arrangement shown, as one example,the upper portion is generally rectangular in shape when viewed from thetop and extends a length from a front 111 to a back 112 between opposingsides 113.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the upper portion includes theassembly station (to be further discussed herein) and is the primarylocation where assembly of the single serve pod can take place. In thearrangement shown, as one example, the upper portion includes a slopingtop design followed by a curve and flattened upper surface to house theassembly station. In this way, the upper portion may include an angledsurface 114 and a flat surface 115.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the upper portion 110 isformed of a polymer such as a plastic, an enhanced polymer,thermoplastics, an elastomer, polyvinyl chloride, a polyethylene, asynthetic, or the like. Other materials also include wood, metal, metalalloys, carbon fiber, glass, fiberglass, stainless steel, rubbers,silicone, aluminum, a combination thereof, and the like.

Assembly Station of Assembly Apparatus:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the assembly apparatus 100includes an upper portion 110 which houses an assembly station 120.Assembly station 120 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and designand is configured to provide an easy holding area for the single servepod 200 during assembly of the single serve pod 200. In order to achievethis the assembly station 120 consists primarily of a cavity or assemblycavity 121 in the flat surface 115 of the upper portion 110 of theassembly apparatus 100.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, in addition to the assemblycavity 121 which is sized and configured to hold steadily the reusablering 40, a filter 20, the assembly station also includes access featuresfor ease of placing and lifting the various components of the singleserve pod. Also known as finger grip apertures 122, these featuresappear as cavity shapes in the flat surface 115 of the upper portion 110of the assembly apparatus 100. The finger grip apertures 122 are on eachside, and adjacent to the assembly cavity so as to allow a user toeasily remove and/or place components into the assembly cavity 121.

In one arrangement, and as shown in the example, assembly cavity 121 isformed and configured to hold and/or position the lid in an optimalposition for ease of assembly. In this way, and in one example, theassembly cavity 121 is configured to hold the lid in an approximateobtuse angled position for ease of assembly. Other angles are alsohereby contemplated for use.

Filter Dispenser of Assembly Apparatus:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the assembly apparatus 100includes a filter dispenser 130. Filter dispenser 130 is formed of anysuitable size, shape, and design and is configured to provide quick andeasy dispensing of the filter 20 disclosed herein. Furthermore, thefilter dispenser 130 is configured to house and hold a plurality offilters 20, so as to dispense one after another.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the filter dispenser 130extends from the front 131, where the plurality of filters 20 aredispensed, to a rear 132, where the plurality of filters 20 can beloaded and/or filled and/or refilled into the hollow tube 133—whichextends in between the front 131 and the rear 132. The rear 132 alsoincludes a refill door 134 which provides access to the hollow interiorof the hollow tube 133, so the filters can be filled and/or refilledwithin. Additionally, and in the arrangement shown, the filter dispenser130 includes a dispenser 136 at the front 131, a plurality of dispensercatches 138 and a grab aperture 140 which all are configured to hold aplurality of filters 20 and dispense the filters 20 with ease.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the filter dispenser 130includes a refill door 134. Refill door 134 is formed of any suitablesize, shape, and design and is configured to provide access to thehollow tube 133 of the filter dispenser 130. In this way, the hollowtube 133 of the filter dispenser 130 can be refilled and or filled witha plurality of features. In an alternative embodiment, filter dispenser130 does not include a refill door 134. In this alternative embodiment,the plurality of filters 20 are refilled and/or filled from the front131 of the filter dispenser 130. In this way, and in this alternativeembodiment, the filter dispenser may include a spring or other featureswhich cause the plurality of filters to move forward. In the arrangementshown, the filters are additionally caused to move forward by gravityand a downward slope of the hollow tube 133 of the filter dispenser 130.

Furthermore, and in another alternative embodiment, the refill dispenserdoes not include a refill door 134 on the rear 132 of the filterdispenser 130. However, alternative means of access and refill and/orfill of the hollow tube 133 of the filter dispenser 130 are herebycontemplated for use. Alternative means of refilling the filterdispenser 130 and/or filling the filter dispenser 130 may include, butare not limited to, causing the filter dispenser 130 to be filled fromthe front, rear openings, side openings, top openings, an upward openingupper portion, a combination thereof, or the like.

Lower Portion of Assembly Apparatus:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the assembly apparatus 100includes a lower portion 150. Lower portion 150 is formed of anysuitable size, shape, and design, and is configured as the bottomportion of the assembly apparatus 100. In the arrangement shown, as oneexample, the lower portion is generally rectangular in shape when viewedfrom the bottom and extends a length from a front 152 to a back 154between opposing sides 156.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the lower portion 150 includesthe storage container (to be further discussed herein) and is theprimary location where storage of coffee beans, coffee grounds, otherbrewing ingredients, a combination thereof, or the like, can take place.In the arrangement shown, as one example, the lower portion 150 includesa tapering side design. In this way, the lower portion 150 may include acurved surface 158. Furthermore, the lower portion 150, at the bottom ofthe lower portion 150, may also include a plurality of feet 159 whichserve for leveling, force absorption, anti-scratch, and otherfunctionality.

Furthermore, and in the arrangement shown, as one example, the pluralityof feet 159 may be formed of small pegs made of rubber and/or siliconewith adhesive properties. In this way, the plurality of feet 159 areformed and configured to stabilize and/or maintain the location ofsystem 10 while also reducing vibration and/or other forces applied tosystem 10 when in operation.

Furthermore, in the arrangement shown, as one example, a plurality offeet are shown. The plurality of feet are formed of a rubber and/orsilicone. In the arrangement shown, the plurality of feet are attachedto the lower portion 150 by an adhesive and form four feet. However,other materials for the composition of the feet such as plastic and thelike are hereby contemplated for use. Additionally, while four feet areshown, any other number of feet are hereby contemplated for use.Additionally, while an adhesive is used for attachment, other forms ofattachment are hereby contemplated for use including, but not limitedto, fasteners, rivets, friction fit, and the like.

Furthermore, and in the arrangement shown, as one example, the bottom ofthe plurality of feet and/or a plurality of pegs for gripping areconfigured with an adhesive and/or gripping property. In this way, theplurality of feet and the configuration of the plurality of feet areformed and suitable to maintain the position of the system 10 on thecountertop or other surface so that the system 10 does not move when inuse.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the lower portion 150 isformed of a polymer such as a plastic, an enhanced polymer,thermoplastics, an elastomer, polyvinyl chloride, a polyethylene, asynthetic, or the like. Other materials also include wood, metal, metalalloys, carbon fiber, glass, fiberglass, stainless steel, rubbers,silicone, aluminum, a combination thereof, and the like.

Storage Container of Assembly Apparatus:

In the arrangement shown, as one example, assembly apparatus 100 alsoincludes a storage container 160 (also referred to as a “storagecompartment”, “compartment”, or simply “container”). Storage compartment160 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design and is configuredto provide storage for coffee beans, coffee grounds, other brewingingredients, a combination thereof, or the like. Furthermore, and in onearrangement as is hereby contemplated for use, the storage compartmentis configured to provide an airtight seal and airtight storage forcoffee beans, coffee grounds, and other brewing ingredients, acombination thereof, or the like. Furthermore, and in one arrangement asis hereby contemplated for use, the storage compartment is configured toprovide a near airtight seal and near airtight storage for coffee beans,coffee grounds, and other brewing ingredients, a combination thereof, orthe like.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the storage container 160extends a length from a front 162—having a handle 172 at the front—to aback 164 between opposing sides 166. The storage container, in thearrangement shown, as one example, has a single hollow interior 168.However, multiple different hollow interiors are hereby contemplated foruse and the container 160 may have a plurality of compartments, eachcompartment having a unique airtight seal. Furthermore, in thearrangement shown, the storage container has an exterior surface 170 anda closing feature 174.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the storage container 160 ishoused within the lower portion 150 within the storage container housing180 that provides unique opening and closing features as well as ease ofcleaning functionality and the like.

Storage Container Housing of Assembly Apparatus: In the arrangementshown, as one example, the storage container 160 is enclosed within astorage container housing 180. The storage container housing 180 isformed of any suitable size, shape, and design, and is configured toprovide functionality and ease of cleaning for the lower portion 150 andthe storage container 160.

In the arrangement shown, as one example, the storage container housingextends a length from a front 182 to a back 184 between opposing sides186. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the storage containerhousing includes a top 188 a bottom 190 and a catch feature 192, amongother components, features, and functionality.

Other Features/Alternative Embodiments

In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 10 includes variousfeatures. Other features, in an alternative embodiment may include, butare not limited to a single serve brewer, an onboard computing device,various electrical components such as receivers and transceivers, powersupplies, and the like, a grinder, an automated assembler withpre-determine rules for dispensing certain amounts, features foradjusting amounts ground and fineness and/or coarseness of grounds, ringstorage, coffee bean storage, coffee grind storage, ground hopperstorage, scooper storage, power supplies, a graphical user interface, atouch screen, and a mobile application, among other components,features, and functionality.

In addition to the above identified features, options, controls, andcomponents, system may also include other features and functionalities,among other options, controls, and components.

In Operation:

In one example, as one method of use, assembly apparatus 100 is designedand configured to provide various components for easily assemblingand/or preparing a single serve pod for brewing. In the arrangementshown, as one example, a user engages the assembly apparatus 100 byfirst removing a reusable ring 40 from the side hooks. Subsequently, auser will grab a single-use or multiple-use filter 20 from the filterdispenser of the assembly apparatus (to be further described herein). Auser then can place the filter 20 into the reusable ring 40.Alternatively, a user will place the reusable ring 40 into the assemblystation 120 (to be further described herein) of the assembly apparatus100.

Once the reusable ring 40 is placed into the assembly station, a userwill place a filter (after removing from the filter dispenser) into thereusable ring 40. Once the filter 20 is in place, a user will open thestorage container 160 (to be further discussed herein) and use a coffeescoop to scoop coffee grounds and/or other ingredients into the hollowinterior of the filter. Subsequently a user will close the reusable lid60/80. The user can then place the assembled single serve pod 200 into asingle serve brewing device (not shown). Once completed, the filter andcontents can simply be removed, and the ring 40 replaced onto a storagehook or within the assembly station of the assembly apparatus 100. Inthis way, the assembly apparatus 100 is configured to make assembly of asingle serve device easy, quick, clean, efficient, environmentallyfriendly, and fun.

Furthermore, in the arrangement shown, and method of use described, auser can effectively, quickly, and efficiently, dispose of the usedcoffee grounds and/or used filter and contents. The bottomless ringprovides for easy disposal of the used filter and contents. This allowsfor quick disposal and/or minimal rinsing/cleaning prior to reusing thereusable ring with a new filter and contents for the brewing of anothersingle serve and/or brewing of another single serve coffee. In this way,waste and/or used filters can be easily removed or fall out whenreleased to a bin or the like. The unique design of system 10 providesfor this quick disposal and/or clean up in the operation.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that other variousmodifications could be made to the systems, apparatuses, processes, andmethods of use without departing from the spirit and scope of thisdisclosure. For example, variations of a reusable pod apparatus areshown in FIGS. 19-26 and a variation of a single serve pod system isshown in FIGS. 27-30 . All such and other modifications and changes fallwithin the scope of the present disclosure and are intended to becovered thereby.

FIG. 19 is a diagram of another example of a reusable pod apparatus. Theillustrated reusable pod apparatus 300 includes a reusable ring 340 anda reusable lid 360. The reusable ring 340 and the reusable lid 360 arecoupled together by a catch features and an attachment features, whichwill be described in connection with FIG. 20 . In FIG. 19 , the reusablelid 360 is coupled with the reusable ring 340 in an open position. Thereusable ring 340 is open and bottomless. In the open position, a filter(e.g., 20) may be placed into the opening of the reusable ring 340 andbe supported by the reusable ring 340, while the cavity of the filterextends through the reusable ring 340. The reusable ring 340 and thereusable lid 360, and their respective components, may be sized, shaped,and otherwise configured to fit into the pod receptacle of varioussingle serve brewing systems.

FIG. 20 is a diagram of components of the reusable pod apparatus of FIG.19 in a disassembled state. The reusable ring 340 includes a catchfeature 354 and an attachment feature 352. The catch feature 354 and theattachment feature 352 may have aspects of the catch feature 54 and theattachment feature 352, respectively, described above. All descriptionrelating to catch feature 54 and attachment feature 52 apply to thecatch feature 354 and the attachment feature 352, respectively, as well.The reusable lid 360 includes a catch feature 376 and an attachmentfeature 374. The catch feature 376 and the attachment feature 374 mayhave aspects of the catch feature 76 and the attachment feature 74,respectively, described above. All description relating to catch feature76 and attachment feature 74 apply to the catch feature 376 and theattachment feature 374, respectively, as well. A pin 362 secures theattachment feature 352 of the reusable ring 340 with the attachmentfeature 374 of the reusable lid 360. Engagement of the catch feature 354of the reusable ring 340 with the catch feature 376 of the reusable lid360 will be described in connection with FIG. 23 . The reusable ring 340may include an optional heat-resistant ring 390 that may be made from aheat-resistant material, such as silicone, among other materials. Whenthe heat-resistant ring 390 is used, it shields the user's fingers fromfeeling heat to some degree when holding the reusable ring 340 after abrew.

FIG. 21 is a top perspective view of the reusable ring 340 in thereusable pod apparatus of FIG. 19 . The reusable ring 340 includes aring body 342 and a rim 344. The rim 344 is sized and shaped to supporta filter, and the filter cavity extends through the ring body 342. Thecatch feature 354 extends from the rim 344, and an end portion of thecatch feature 354 extends in the same direction as the ring body 342.The catch feature 354 includes a slot 355 that operates to receive a tabof the catch feature 376 of the reusable lid 360 and to secure thereusable lid 360 to the reusable ring 340.

FIG. 22 shows a bottom perspective view of the reusable ring. Asillustrated in FIG. 22 , the attachment feature 352 is positioned belowthe plane of the rim 344 when the reusable ring 340 is in the uprightposition.

FIG. 23 shows a cross-sectional view of the reusable pod apparatus ofFIG. 19 in a closed position. As mentioned above, the reusable ring 340is bottomless. The reusable lid 360 includes a percolator 368 having aplurality of apertures for distributing liquids over the ingredients inthe interior of a filter. The percolator 368 may have aspects of thepercolator 68 described above, and any description relating to thepercolator 68 applies to the percolator 368, as well. In the illustratedembodiment, the percolator 368 extends into the interior of the ringbody 342 and is approximately 90% the height of the ring body 342. Invarious embodiments, the percolator 368 and its aperture(s) may haveother sizes, shapes, and configurations. When the reusable pod apparatusis in the closed position, there is a sealing effect so no water leaksbetween the reusable lid 360 and the reusable ring 340 during brewing.This sealing effect can be achieve, as mentioned above, by theengagement of a tab 378 of the catch feature of the reusable lid 360with the slot 355 of the catch feature of the reusable ring 340.

FIG. 24 is a top perspective view of the reusable pod apparatus of FIG.19 with the lid closed. The embodiment of FIG. 24 includes one aperture362 in the reusable lid 360. The illustrated one-aperture embodiment iscompatible with a majority of single serve brewing machines available toconsumers.

FIG. 25 is a bottom perspective of the reusable pod apparatus of FIG. 24. The attachment features 352, 376 are positioned below the plane of therim 344 when the reusable ring 340 is in the upright position. Thisconfiguration of the attachment features 352, 376 is compatible with thepod receptacles of a majority of single serve brewing machines availableto consumers.

FIG. 26 is a diagram of an example of a reusable pod apparatus having areusable lid with five apertures. The illustrated “five-hole” embodimentof the reusable pod apparatus is compatible with certain newer singleserve brewing systems that direct multiple streams of hot water into thepod.

FIG. 27 is a diagram of another example of a single serve pod system.The illustrated single serve pod system 400 includes a built in grinder(not shown), which may be a coffee bean grinder. The grinder is beneatha hopper 418 that may contain coffee beans. The grinder operates togrind whole coffee beans into fresh coffee grounds and operates todispense an appropriate amount of fresh coffee grounds into a reusablepod apparatus. The user may grab a filter 408 located at a filter drawer409, which holds and dispenses filters from a stack of filters. Then,the user opens the pod drawer 407. The user assembles a single serve podusing the filter 408 and the reusable pod apparatus 241 and then loadsthe assembled single serve pod (not shown) into the pod drawing 407. Thegrinder includes a selector 430 that rotates to choose between light,medium, or strong to indicate how strong the user would like the coffee.When the user presses the “Go” button 417, the grinder grinds coffeebeans from the hopper 418 to provide an appropriate amount of freshcoffee grounds and dispenses the fresh coffee founds into the assembledsingle serve pod in the pod drawer 407. This operation will be describedin more detail in connection with FIG. 28 .

FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view of the single serve pod system of FIG.27 . As shown in FIG. 28 , the single serve pod system includes ahousing 401, a ground coffee chute 402, a secondary printed circuitboard 405, a primary printed circuit board 406, a pod drawer 407, afilter 408, a filter drawer 409, a filter stack 410, a grinder motor411, a “Go” start button 417, a hopper 418, a lid closing flap 419, anda reusable pod apparatus 241. The pod drawer 407 holds the lid of thereusable pod apparatus 241 open in a reflex angle position, which allowsthe filter in the pod drawer 407 to receive ground coffee from theground coffee chute 402. The mechanism beneath the hopper 418 isindicated by a circle 440. In the circle 440 is a burr coffee grinder.An adjuster for strength selection tightens and loosens the burrs tomake the coffee grounds finer or coarser for weaker or stronger flavor,respectively. The adjuster can be adjusted progressively tighter andlooser to make incremental changes to cover a spectrum between light andstrong coffee. The ground coffee exits the burrs and leads to the groundcoffee chute 402. The user may then open the pod drawer 407, whichsimultaneously closes the lid of the reusable pod apparatus 241 andexposes the single serve pod ready for a user to use in a single servebrewer. Pulling the pod drawer 407 causes the lid of the reusable podapparatus 240 to contact with the closing flap 419, thereby causing thelid to fall closed. The user may check that the lid is snapped securelyclosed before brew. In various embodiments, the hopper 418 may bemodular and replaceable, allowing users to frequently change the coffeebeans and giving them more variety and choice.

FIG. 29 is a diagram of the pod drawer 407 of the single serve podsystem of FIG. 27 . FIG. 29 illustrates the pod drawer 407 with thereusable pod apparatus 241. When in the illustrated position, placing afilter inside the reusable pod apparatus 241 is very easy. The lid ofthe reusable pod apparatus 241 is in an open position with filterloaded. After reusable pod apparatus and filter are loaded into the poddrawer 407, a user may push the pod drawer 407 inside the housing (401,FIG. 28 ), which places the filter opening underneath the ground coffeechute (402, FIG. 28 ).

FIG. 30 is a diagram of the filter drawer 409 of the single serve podsystem of FIG. 27 . The filter drawer 409 is configured to hold a stackof filters (410, FIG. 28 ). A spring mechanism (not shown) may push thestack of filters toward the opening 450 as filters are taken by theuser.

The embodiment of FIGS. 27-30 allows coffee drinkers to convert coffeebeans into ground coffee for single serve pods, which gives userssignificantly more variety to choose from. Increased variety and optionsfor coffee selection are tremendously increased, and users are notlimited to preset coffee selections from single use pods. Freshly groundcoffee from whole beans is also fresher and more cost effective forusers. The grinder may freshly grind the appropriate amount of coffeeneeded for a single serve pod right before brewing, resulting in freshcoffee that has more flavor and aromatic properties. In variousembodiments, a variation of the illustrated system does not have agrinder and, instead, has a dispenser for dispensing pre-ground coffeeinto a single serve pod. The dispenser may be mostly airtight to keepcoffee grounds as fresh as possible.

The embodiments disclosed herein are examples of the disclosure and maybe embodied in various forms. For instance, although certain embodimentsherein are described as separate embodiments, each of the embodimentsherein may be combined with one or more of the other embodiments herein.Specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not tobe interpreted as limiting, but as a basis for the claims and as arepresentative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variouslyemploy the present disclosure in virtually any appropriately detailedstructure. Like reference numerals may refer to similar or identicalelements throughout the description of the figures.

The phrases “in an embodiment,” “in embodiments,” “in variousembodiments,” “in some embodiments,” or “in other embodiments” may eachrefer to one or more of the same or different embodiments in accordancewith the present disclosure. A phrase in the form “A or B” means “(A),(B), or (A and B).” A phrase in the form “at least one of A, B, or C”means “(A); (B); (C); (A and B); (A and C); (B and C); or (A, B, andC).”

It should be understood that the foregoing description is onlyillustrative of the present disclosure. Various alternatives andmodifications can be devised by those skilled in the art withoutdeparting from the disclosure. Accordingly, the present disclosure isintended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variances.The embodiments described with reference to the attached drawing figuresare presented only to demonstrate certain examples of the disclosure.Other elements, steps, methods, and techniques that are insubstantiallydifferent from those described above and/or in the appended claims arealso intended to be within the scope of the disclosure.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system comprising: a filter configured for asingle serve brewing system, the filter comprising a lip and a cavityconfigured to hold a brew ingredient; a reusable ring configured to holdthe filter to be used in the single serve brewing system and, afterbeing used in the single serve brewing system, to release the filter,the reusable ring being bottomless and being removable from the singleserve brewing system; a reusable lid configured to cover a top of thereusable ring, the reusable lid comprising at least one aperture,wherein the reusable lid, the filter, and the reusable ring combine toform an assembled single serve pod in which the reusable lid covers thetop of the reusable ring, the lip of the filter is held between thereusable lid and the reusable ring, and the cavity of the filter extendsthrough the reusable ring, and wherein the assembled single serve pod isconfigured to be insertable into the single serve brewing system forbrewing a brewed beverage and to be removable from the single servebrewing system; and a single serve pod assembly apparatus, the singleserve pod assembly apparatus comprising an assembly station configuredto receive the reusable ring and the filter.
 2. The system of claim 1,wherein the filter is configured to be used for a single brew in thesingle serve brewing system.
 3. The system of claim 2, wherein thefilter is formed of paper.
 4. The system of claim 1, wherein thereusable ring comprises a ring body and a rim extending from a top ofthe ring body.
 5. The system of claim 4, wherein in the assembled singleserve pod, the reusable lid rests on the rim of the reusable ring. 6.The system of claim 4, further comprising a heat-resistant ringconfigured to surround the ring body of the reusable ring.
 7. The systemof claim 1, wherein the single serve pod assembly apparatus furthercomprises a filter dispenser configured to dispense a plurality offilters.
 8. The system of claim 7, wherein the single serve pod assemblyapparatus further comprises a single housing that houses the assemblystation and the filter dispenser.
 9. The system of claim 7, wherein thesingle serve pod assembly apparatus further comprises: a storagecontainer configured to hold a brew ingredient; and a hook configured tohang a scoop, the scoop configured to scoop the brew ingredient from thestorage container and to transfer the brew ingredient into the filter inthe assembly station.
 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the singleserve pod assembly apparatus further comprises a single housing thathouses the assembly station, the filter dispenser, and the storagecontainer.
 11. The system of claim 9, wherein the single serve podassembly apparatus further comprises a grinder configured to produce thebrew ingredient.